Mayor Clougie declares April 25 2025 as Natural Connections Day in Placerville

The Placerville City Council meeting on March 25, 2025, highlighted the upcoming Natural Connections Day, set for April 25, 2025, at El Dorado High School. This event aims to engage seventh-grade students from El Dorado County in hands-on learning about natural resource management, fostering environmental stewardship and community development.

Mayor John Clougie proclaimed April 25 as Natural Connections Day, emphasizing the importance of exposing young students to various fields within natural resources. He noted that the program not only prepares students for future careers but also enriches their understanding of the environment. The event will feature high school students leading activities on topics such as beekeeping, fire ecology, sustainable food production, and wildlife biology, with support from local professionals and organizations, including CALFIRE and the U.S. Forest Service.

Students from El Dorado High School expressed their enthusiasm for the program. Isaac Gautji, a junior, shared his personal connection to the East Campus, where the program takes place, highlighting its legacy in his family and its impact on the community. Maggie McGay, also a junior and president of the Natural Resources Program, spoke about the skills and experiences gained through the program, including teaching younger students about ecosystems and the importance of protecting natural spaces.

The council's support for Natural Connections Day reflects a commitment to educational initiatives that connect youth with their environment, preparing them for future challenges in natural resource management. As the event approaches, it promises to be a significant opportunity for community engagement and environmental education.